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:. Selection
In selecting your color, take the time to look
at large samples in your home, both by daylight
and by lamplight in the evening. The color you
choose will look different under different
lighting conditions.
Light colored carpets will show more soil and
require more maintenance than dark colors.
Darker colors of carpeting are more effective in
high traffic areas. Multi-colors and patterned
carpets are especially effective in hiding soil.
The performance and quality of a carpet is
directly related to the amount and quality of
the fiber that goes into the pile. The better
the fiber and the denser it is packed, the
better the carpet will perform. Thin, less dense
carpet will lose its surface appearance faster.
It is best to buy the highest quality you can
afford.
:. Stain Removal
Treatment of the affected area should begin
immediately upon discovery. The more time that
elapses before treatment, the more difficult a
stain will be to remove.
First scrape food spills gently with a spoon or
dull knife, removing as much as possible.
Always work from the outer edge of the stain
towards the center to avoid spreading. Blot*, do
not rub or scrub, as the carpet may fuzz.
When using a mild detergent, use a clear,
non-bleach laundry detergent. Do not use cloudy
detergents as they can leave a sticky residue.
Use only 1/4 teaspoon of detergent to 32 ounces
of water. Follow detergent cleaning with clear
water rinsing and then blot to dry as much as
possible.
* For any stain removal, use a white cloth or
paper towels for cleanup.
:. Vacuum Regularly
Most dirt, and even dust, takes the form of hard
particles. When left in the carpet these gritty,
sharp particles abrade the pile of the carpet.
Regular vacuuming not only prolongs the life of
the carpet, but will enhance its appearance as
well. Most soiling in carpet is of the dry,
particulate type which can be removed with a
vacuum cleaner.
Vacuum high traffic lanes daily, medium to high
traffic areas twice weekly, and the entire house
at least once a week.
Use a vacuum with a rotating brush or beater
bar. Change the bags often and check the beater
bars for burrs and gouges so as not to damage
the surface of the carpet. Some thick loop pile
carpets will fuzz if a rotating brush vacuum is
used. In this case we recommend a suction vacuum
only.
:. Preventative Maintenance
The use of mats or runners at all home entrances
and on uncarpeted areas adjacent to carpet will
reduce soil and moisture in traffic areas. Clean
mats and any other rugs placed over carpet
regularly.
The use of furniture coasters to distribute the
weight of heavy items is also recommended,
especially for furniture with wheels. Take care
when moving furniture with wheels by putting a
protective barrier between the wheels and the
carpet.
To extend the beauty of your carpeting, close
drapes or blinds during hours of direct
sunlight.
Exercise extreme caution with all bleaches, tile
cleaners, mildew removers, oven cleaners, drain
openers and plant food. They are strong
chemicals that can permanently discolor or
dissolve carpet fibers.
:. Cleaning Recommendations
Even with regular vacuuming, soil particles and
oily dirt will cling to the carpet fibers, and
with foot traffic these particles and oily dirt
are driven deep into the carpet. We recommend
professional hot water extraction every 18 to 24
months. Periodic cleaning, using the hot water
extraction method performed by a professional
cleaner, will refresh carpet appearance.
The most used areas, such as entrances,
doorways, traffic lanes, and in front of chairs
will collect dirt faster than other areas. Clean
these areas as they begin to show soil. This
will stop dirt from spreading, and will extend
the time between professional cleaning.
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